World-class education

When Florida lawmakers talked about creating world-class education standards for the state's school children, they offered words and broad goals. House Speaker Marco Rubio included the idea in his session opening remarks, and said to get there required three things - replacing the Sunshine State Standards with a more competitive curriculum, refocusing the mission of high schools on preparing students for college or work, and helping all students achieve the set goals.

How does that compare with the world in which we seek to compete?

When the ruler of Dubai talks about creating world-class education for his region of the world, he speaks with money. $10-billion. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has announced a new foundation designed to encourage a "knowledge-based society" throughout the Middle East. "The Foundation's mission is to invest in knowledge and human development, focusing specifically on research and education and promoting equal opportunities for the personal growth and success of our youth. The Foundation's programs are also aimed at enhancing the standing of scholars and intellectuals in the Arab world," the sheikh said in a press release.

About the blog

Gradebook features education articles and insights on schools in Florida, focusing on Tampa Bay area schools. What's the latest from the Florida Department of Education? How is the FCAT being used to compare Florida schools? What's going on in Tampa Bay schools? Get an insider's view from the Times education reporting team.